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Child disease cases up in Vietnam, fatalities down

(AP) HANOI, Vietnam - Vietnam has recorded more cases of hand, foot and mouth disease this year than in 2011, but the fatality rate has decreased sharply.

A Health Ministry official said Friday that the disease had infected about 134,000 people and killed 43 this year. Most of the victims have been children under 5.

Last year, the disease infected more than 110,000 people and killed 116 in Vietnam. The official said the fatality rate has dropped thanks to early detection and treatment, adding that the infection rate has been slowing after peaking in September. The official spoke on condition of anonymity, citing policy.

The disease typically hits children under 5, bringing a low fever, rash and sores on the hands, feet and mouth. Most people recover quickly.